I guess it would be in India when we were doing a press conference, they asked "how do you maintain such high energy to do all the things you do?" They then proceeded to mention nice things about most of my stuff, so I thought they painted me in a very nice way!

MSJ: What's ahead for you?

I’m starting to write songs and music for my third solo album as well as songs for a new band project! I’m also right at the start of another Neal Morse Band album!

MSJ: What was the last CD you bought and/or what have you been listening to lately?

I think the last CD I bought was William Shatner doing a whole bunch of covers… But since the NMB tour ended this year I really felt the need to reconnect with much of my favorite music from the past… I also discovered many classics that I overlooked back in the day. It’s nice to absorb the works of Simon and Garfunkel, for instance, where it’s full albums rather than just hit surfing. The same goes for many others, Frank Zappa, Steely Dan etcetera… I just like to reconnect without any other musical projects in the way. I think it part of the search for where do I go next.

MSJ: Have you read any good books lately?

Backstage Past was one…. It’s an autobiography of Barry Fey and the rise of the concert / touring industry! Grew up in Denver so I was close to much of what the book talks about… I was even at some of those shows.

MSJ: What about the last concert you attended for your enjoyment?

I saw the Contortionist in Phoenix in October. A couple of the guys were our stage techs. A good friend of mine played their music for me earlier this year so I knew what they sounded like, but I thought their live show was really great! I’m also going to see the Dixie Dregs in April.

MSJ: Do you remember the first concert you attended?

Yes I do… I was seven years old. Now my sister and I had consecutive birthdays but she is a few years older. So for her birthday she and I got to go to the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, Colorado to see Bobby Sherman. There I said it. It was my seventh birthday.

MSJ:

Have you come across any new gear recently that you love?

I have been using an Axe FX, AX8 for guitar. That is a really great unit! I also really love the Korg Kronos keyboard! And we got a Godin Nylon String electric that is really great!

MSJ:

Are there any closing thoughts you would like to get out there?

I appreciate all the fans' support, and I hope to get out on the road with my own stuff soon!

MSJ: This interview is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2018 Volume 1 at lulu.com/strangesound.